Objectives: Suicidal behavior amongst new mothers seems to be a big problem, with suicide being the cause of 20% of postpartum deaths (Lindahl et al., 2005). Even more common are suicidal ideations...Show moreObjectives: Suicidal behavior amongst new mothers seems to be a big problem, with suicide being the cause of 20% of postpartum deaths (Lindahl et al., 2005). Even more common are suicidal ideations, which are experienced by 24.5% of pregnant women in a clinical setting (Taylor et al., 2016). This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for perinatal suicidality amongst a Dutch clinical setting. Methods: In this retrospective cohort design, data of N = 103 women was collected on psychiatric diagnosis, psychopharmacological medication use, psychiatric and somatic comorbidity, physical health, pregnancy related information, information on intoxications and socioeconomic information. Suicidal ideation and behavior were questioned by the treating physician during the intake interview and follow-up and measured by means of two questionnaires, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Results: Data on suicidal ideation was available for 62 women, of which 52 experienced suicidal ideations (83.87%). Univariate logistic regression analysis found total EPDS score at intake (OR 1.17 = 95% CI: 1.03-1.39) and total BSI score at intake (OR = 5.34, 95% CI: 1.40-20.83) to be significant predictors for suicidal ideation. Limitations: The power of the study can be seen as a limitation. Also, there was limited information available on suicidal ideation during follow-up and suicidal behavior in general. Conclusions: This study found an increased prevalence of suicidal ideation in women during the perinatal period. In order to prevent maternal suicidal behavior, it is important to do more extensive research with a large sample size, focusing on social factors, life events, self-harm behaviors and maternal psychopathology. This will lead to a better understanding of all the risk factors involved in maternal suicidal ideations and reduce maternal suicidality.Show less
